Mr. Speaker, on Saturday, March 1, I had the pleasure of attending the official opening of the new civic hall and library in the town of Hanover.
The new civic centre and library was made possible through the Canada infrastructure works program which is driven by local priorities and involves all three levels of government.
We have extended the program adding $425 million to the $175 million to be spent in 1997, for a total of $600 million this year.
For those few who question the program may I suggest they examine the quality of life in those countries and communities that have ignored infrastructure. It is not a pleasant sight.
Infrastructure is more than a program to create jobs in the short run. It is an investment in the fixed assets of a country for its long term economic viability. Infrastructure is a bridge to the future.
I congratulate the town of Hanover for its forward looking vision and its commitment to enhancing the quality of life for its citizens.